Book Launch a Grand Affair

Local writer and The Resident News columnist Susanna Barton launched her newly released book, “Grand Plans: How to Mitigate Geri-Drama in 20 Easy Steps” and the accompanying “Grand Planner,” in early December at the Literary Lounge in Murray Hill and San Marco Bookstore in San Marco Square.

“There was a tremendous turnout for both events, it was really fun to see everyone and feel the neighborhood love,” Barton said. “I am grateful to everyone who came out to support these grand planning adventures and helped normalize conversations about aging in the process.”

Barton published “Grand Plans” this year, following a challenging caregiving experience and her father’s passing. Both experiences revealed the depth of planning all adults should be taking now to improve outcomes during their second half of life. Her list of 20 mitigating steps includes everything from ensuring all affairs – legal, financial and medical documents – are in place to minimizing your stuff and self, and playing the “what-if” game “like your life depends on it.”

“The more planning, and expecting, and talking we can do with our family and friends now, the better and less stressful our senior strolls will be – both for us, and our one-day caregivers,” Barton said.

The book and Grand Planner workbook are available on Amazon and locally at the Literary Lounge, San Marco Bookstore and CX904 in downtown Jacksonville. Visit www.mygrandplans.com for more information on the Grand Plans biweekly newsletter, podcast and blog.